Entry Word: develop
Function: verb
Text: 1 to gradually become clearer or more detailed <as the story of the bombing developed, the scope of the tragedy became more apparent> Synonyms evolve, unfold Related Words advance, proceed, progress; mature, ripen; materialize2 to come to have gradually <they developed a taste for green olives> Synonyms acquire, cultivate, form Related Words gain, get, obtain; achieve, attain, reach; foster, nourish, nurture, promote Antonyms lose3 to become mature <the roses are developing nicely in the garden> -- see MATURE4 to express more fully and in greater detail <they developed the initial idea into a complete plan> -- see EXPAND 1